Suspect Identified in Unsolved Murder of Margaret Anselmo

Spokane Police have identified Brian J. Anderson as the suspect in the unsolved 1997 murder of Margaret Anselmo, thanks to Forensic Genetic Genealogy techniques. Anselmo's body was found on January 3, 1997, in an alley, revealing signs of blunt force trauma and sexual assault. Despite years of investigation, detectives struggled to find a suspect until genetic analysis provided a breakthrough. Lynda Keenan, a local genealogist, helped identify Anderson's relatives, who cooperated by providing DNA samples.

Kinship analysis confirmed that Anderson, now deceased, was the only individual who could meet the familial connections. If he were alive, charges of 1st Degree Murder and 1st Degree Rape would be sought. The Spokane Police Department continues to encourage anyone with information to contact Crime Check. This case highlights the importance of genetic technology in solving cold cases and providing closure for victims' families.